Do We Really Need Bike Lanes In Lake Charles? [PHOTO]

It was brought to my attention that there is now a lane on the road for bike riders in Lake Charles. While I didn't think much about it at first, I eventually saw it and I don't like it. Now, I am all for bike riders and even joggers to have their place where they can not be invaded by oncoming traffic or any obstacles that may prevent them from their extra curricular activities, but I was pretty confused when I saw where they placed the lane. It's not like other bike lanes I've seen that are usually on the side of the road. This one is right in the middle! I had to wonder what they were thinking.

It turns out, they're not permanent. They were added by a group of volunteers as part of a "Better Block" demonstration that's taking place this Friday. The idea is to show people what a "complete street" would look like that's not just designed for cars, but for bikes, buses, pedestrians, etc...

That's cool and all, and maybe the finished demonstration will make more sense, but right now it doesn't look like a better street. It looks confusing and dangerous. So let's assume for a second that this was a new, permanent part of Lakeshore. What then?

I can honestly say that I have not seen that many bikers in the area. I have seen plenty of runners in the city, and I am all for people working to get their health up, but I have to ask, why would we need a bike lane such a popular area of the city?

The city is truly growing, and the influx of new traffic in the area is very noticeable. How are we going to adjust to these changes when the city basically shuts down when the interstate is down to one lane? Would the same thing happen on Lakeshore?

What do you think? Would permanently adding this bike lane to Lakeshore Drive make it a "complete street" or a traffic nightmare?